âI have an open mind and Iâm willing to do whatever," Hillis said. "You know, for the past seven years Iâve had seven different head coaches and seven different playbooks."

Hillis began his NFL career as a fullback with the Denver Broncos in 2008. Injuries to several other runners forced the Broncos to make him their featured back â and he played well. He later was traded to the Cleveland Browns, for whom he briefly starred at running back.

The Chiefs apparently like his versatility -- he was the first free agent they signed -- and could have him share time at featured back with Jamaal Charles. He also is an option at fullback.

âYouâve got to have an open mind. Thatâs what Iâm going to do, and whatever role theyâre going to give me, Iâm going to try to be good at it and try to succeed.â

One reason Hillis signed with the Chiefs was to be reunited with offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. Hillis had his best NFL season in 2010 for the Browns with Daboll calling the plays. He rushed for 1,177 yards, caught 61 passes and scored 13 touchdowns that year.

âI know what his scheme presents, what he can bring, and I know he can use me in a lot of different situations,â Hillis said. âI also know we have another great back here in Jamaal Charles, and you know, having a complementary back like me come in there and help him, itâs not as fun when you take all the beating and all the pounding. So when you have a guy in there that you know is just as good, if not a lot better than you are, thatâs really good, too.â

Hillis entered the 2011 season in the final year of his previous contract. But injuries limited him to 10 games, and he was ineffective when he was in the lineup. The Browns did not renew his contract.

âWhenever youâre having a down year, itâs always tough, especially when you expect a lot from yourself,â Hillis said. âSome bad things happened, but you move on from it. Thatâs what Iâm taking for my mind-set this year -- to come out here and do the best I can and help this team win."